EMG Experiences: Sharing Here

[Outlook1958]

Hello community,My family doctor sent me to see a neuro because of my muscle twitching. I'm having my first (and hopefully last...) appointment at the neuro's next Wednesday. After all I have read here and on general medical websites, I assume that he will most probably do an EMG. I had a look in the FAQ-Section about the EMG, but still I would like to ask you about your experiences with this procedure. I simply can't believe that they're going to stick needles into my muscles and leave them there for several minutes. I mean, this MUST result in horrible, unsustainable pain.Don't the neuros use at least local anesthesia when doing an EMG? It must feel like getting a flu vaccination in the arm, and this IS painful, although the injection takes only a few seconds. How am I supposed to stand such a pain for MINUTES and even MOVE the muscle with the needle in it? This sounds like medieval torture to me...I heard about alternative EMG practices where the sensor is just placed on the skin surface without intrusion, like an ECG where the sensors are just placed on the chest. Noboby thinks of sticking needles into my heart in order to check it What are your personal experiences with the EMG?

 

[angusglover]

It really is NOT that sore to be honest.relax...

 

[SharonSmoove]

Hi,It's nothing to worry about. A few pricks here and there thats about it.Sharon

 

[suga1]

I was not such a big deal really. The NCV was more annoying, though not painful.

 

[ListoR]

Hi - It doesn't hurt - just a bit uncomfortable. Worth it for the peace of mind it gives!

 

[Outlook1958]

Thanks for the information! I have just returned from the neuro's, he did not even do an EMG because he was so sure everything is OK with me after the basic reflex and strength tests.He did however do an NCV test. Well, this is nothing to be afraid of. It feels like some sort of very slight electric shock in the foot. Just for everybody who doesn't know about it yet: In contrary to the EMG, the NCV test is non-invasive, the electodes just touch the skin surface. It is not even annoying, it just feels kinda funny imo.

 

[Aediximic]

Great news! "After all I have read here and on general medical websites, I assume that he will most probably do an EMG." Actually, it seems to me that many neuros don't do an EMG when the exam is normal unless the patient requests one and/or presents with extremely high anxiety( At least in Europe ). Myself, I did not get an EMG as the neuro said I was fine and there was no need for one ( I'm from Norway ). I have read several accounts on this forum of people with similar experiences, inlcuding yours